Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in South Dakota for 2025 – Accredited Schools Online & Campus

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Based on the latest South Dakota occupational employment projections, the employment of nurse practitioners will grow by at least 54.97% through 2030 (South Dakota Department of Labor, 2023). In the dynamic landscape of healthcare education, South Dakota stands as a hub of opportunity for aspiring nurse practitioners (NPs) seeking to excel in their profession.

With a range of both online and on-campus options, prospective nurse practitioners are offered diverse pathways to achieve their career aspirations through nurse practitioner programs in South Dakota. To acquire this high-paying nursing degree, however, requires more than six years of academic and clinical preparation.

In this article, we enumerate the best nurse practitioner schools in South Dakota offering online and on-campus nurse practitioner programs. We delve into the unique attributes that set these programs apart, allowing you to make informed decisions tailored to your learning preferences and professional goals. We present the steps on how to become a nurse practitioner in South Dakota, as well as the necessary preparations for a career as a nurse practitioner in the state.

Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in South Dakota 2023

• Working as a Nurse Practitioner in South Dakota
• How to Become a Nurse Practitioner in South Dakota
• Cost of Taking Up a Nurse Practitioner Program in South Dakota
• Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities for Nurse Practitioner Students in South Dakota
• Difference Between Online and On-Campus Nurse Practitioner Programs
• How Are Telehealth Competencies Integrated into Nurse Practitioner Programs in South Dakota?
• Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in South Dakota for 2025
• What are the legal and regulatory challenges for nurse practitioners in South Dakota?
• Is the Accelerated Psychiatric Mental Health NP Certificate Right for You?
• What Professional Development Opportunities Can Enhance Nurse Practitioner Careers in South Dakota?
• Can Licensed Practical Nurses Transition to Nurse Practitioner Roles in South Dakota?
• How Can Nurse Practitioners Stay Updated on Licensing and Regulatory Requirements in South Dakota?
• What are the Emerging Trends Impacting Nurse Practitioner Practice in South Dakota?
• How do nurse practitioners address healthcare disparities in South Dakota?
• What are the different NP specializations in South Dakota?
• What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Nurse Practitioner Program in South Dakota?
• What is the role of an MSN degree in advancing nurse practitioner careers?
• What are the advantages of incorporating nurse midwifery into advanced practice in South Dakota?

Working as a Nurse Practitioner in South Dakota

To work as a nurse practitioner (NP) in South Dakota, you need to get a license from the South Dakota Board of Nursing. You also need to secure a national certification as an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) through organizations like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB). But before that, you need to choose among the nurse practitioner programs in South Dakota.

Working as a nurse practitioner in South Dakota, as you would in other states, can offer a range of experiences and opportunities. Projected to grow 46% through 2031, the annual nurse practitioner salary in South Dakota as of 2022 is $115,610 based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data (BLS, 2022). South Dakota has its own regulations regarding the scope of practice for nurse practitioners. The extent to which NPs can diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication may vary based on state law.

As of December 2022, there were 1,964 actively licensed nurse practitioners in South Dakota, which is equivalent to a 38.9% increase since 2020 (South Dakota Center for Nursing Workforce, 2023). Given the nurse practitioner job outlook in South Dakota, this trend is poised to continue. Nurse practitioners in South Dakota can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, primary care practices, specialty practices, and more. The availability of positions may vary between urban and rural areas.

How to Become a Nurse Practitioner in South Dakota

As one of the best specialty career choices for nurses, becoming a nurse practitioner in South Dakota involves several steps, including education, licensure, certification, and specialization.

You can start by taking up a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from an accredited nursing program. This typically takes around four years to complete. After completing your BSN, you need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a licensed RN.

Before pursuing advanced practice roles like nurse practitioner, gaining clinical experience as an RN is a major requirement. To become a nurse practitioner in South Dakota, candidates should have at least 500 to 1,000 direct patient care clinical hours incorporated into their NP program curricula.

Nurse practitioners are required to hold advanced degrees, thus completing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a specialization as a nurse practitioner is the final step. If you are a BSN degree holder, you can take accelerated nurse practitioner programs in South Dakota. This path prepares you for advanced clinical practice, including diagnostics, treatment, and prescribing medication. In South Dakota, 99.1% of nurse practitioners hold a graduate degree, with a total of 1,118 MSN graduates and 238 DNP (South Dakota Center for Nursing Workforce, 2023). Online nurse practitioner programs in South Dakota make it possible for nurses to pursue advanced studies and work at the same time.

After completing your nurse practitioner program, you need to obtain national certification in your chosen specialization. This certification is usually provided by organizations like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB). Check the key agencies, such as the South Dakota Nursing Board, to stay updated with nurse practitioner requirements in South Dakota.

Cost of Taking Up a Nurse Practitioner Program in South Dakota

The cost of accredited nurse practitioner programs in South Dakota is influenced by several factors, including the type of program—whether MSN, DNP, or postgraduate certificate—the institution offering the program, whether you are an in-state or out-of-state student, and whether you attend a public or private institution.

South Dakota State University, for instance, charges in-state students $613 per credit while the cost for out-of-state students is $927 per credit. The postgraduate family nurse practitioner certificate program requires 26 credits, 18 credits for the psychiatric mental health NP program, and 15 credits for the adult-gerontology NP program. Given this, the total cost of attendance can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars per year. As well, you might want to consider nursing courses online free of charge as provided by healthcare organizations.

The cost of on-campus and online nurse practitioner programs in South Dakota NP can vary based on several factors. While the tuition for the actual coursework might be similar, you can expect differences in other associated costs. Most programs have additional fees, such as technology fees, lab fees, clinical placement fees, and more. These fees can add a significant amount to the overall cost of nurse practitioner programs in South Dakota. Some online programs charge technology or distance learning fees to cover the costs of delivering coursework online. These fees may not be present in on-campus programs.

Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities for Nurse Practitioner Students in South Dakota

Aspiring nurse practitioners in South Dakota can access a variety of financial aid resources to make their educational journey more affordable. From state-specific grants to national scholarships, these opportunities help mitigate the cost barriers associated with advanced nursing programs.

Students may consider applying for the South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship, which provides financial support to resident students pursuing higher education in the state. Additionally, the Build Dakota Scholarship offers funding for qualified students in high-demand fields, including healthcare, and can cover full tuition costs for eligible programs.

Nationally, students can explore scholarships from renowned organizations such as the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Nurse Corps Scholarship Program, which offers financial aid in exchange for service commitments in medically underserved areas.

For those exploring how to become a nurse practitioner in South Dakota, many universities, like South Dakota State University and Mount Marty University, offer internal scholarships, grants, and other financial aid opportunities tailored to nursing students. These institutions often have dedicated financial aid offices to assist students in identifying and applying for relevant funding options.

Lastly, loan forgiveness programs such as the National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Program present another valuable avenue. By working in designated underserved communities, students can significantly reduce their student loan debt while contributing to improved healthcare access in the state. For aspiring nurse practitioners, leveraging these resources can make the pursuit of advanced practice nursing both attainable and sustainable.

Difference Between Online and On-Campus Nurse Practitioner Programs

Approximately 88% of nurse practitioners in 2022 were prepared for primary care, of which 70.3% is focused on the family, 14.9% on adult and geriatrics, 2.2% on women’s health, and 2.4% on pediatrics (American Association of Nurse Practitioners, 2022). Online and on-campus nurse practitioner programs in South Dakota, including online MSN and DNP, each have their own advantages and considerations. The choice between the two depends on your personal preferences, learning style, and individual circumstances.

Practicum placements can vary widely in online programs. Some programs require students to find and secure their own clinical sites, preceptors, and placements. This requires proactive networking, communication, and coordination with potential clinical sites, which can be more challenging if you are based outside of the area where clinical placements are available. Many on-campus programs have established relationships with healthcare facilities and preceptors for clinical placements. The clinical coordinators often help secure appropriate clinical sites, which can simplify the process for students.

In terms of the learning environment, for online nurse practitioner programs in South Dakota, learning occurs in a virtual environment. Students need strong self-discipline and time management skills to succeed in a more independent learning environment.  In contrast, learning takes place in physical classrooms with on-campus NP programs. In-person interactions with faculty and peers allow for immediate feedback, networking, and collaborative learning.

How Are Telehealth Competencies Integrated into Nurse Practitioner Programs in South Dakota?

As digital health innovation reshapes patient care, many nurse practitioner programs in South Dakota incorporate telehealth training into their curricula. These programs equip students with the skills to use secure digital platforms for patient communication, remote diagnostics, and virtual clinical management. Innovative instructional models, including simulation-based learning and practical telehealth exercises, prepare graduates to effectively serve communities where in-person care is limited. Additionally, curricula delivered via online nursing programs in South Dakota emphasize real-time technology application and data security, ensuring nurse practitioners are adept at navigating modern healthcare environments.

Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in South Dakota for 2025

Research.com experts have identified the following nurse practitioner programs in South Dakota as accredited by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). The curriculum of these programs meets the standards set by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

1. Presentation College Family Nurse Practitioner MSN

The MSN in Family Nurse Practitioner program of Presentation College prepares nurses to assume the role of primary care provider for families and individuals across the lifespan. The six-semester MSN-FNP online program is based on national evidence-based criteria and features a family-focused curriculum that prepares family nurse practitioners to provide preventative and wellness care.

MSN nursing programs at Presentation College feature a systematic teaching method, interdisciplinary residencies in the state-of-the-art Avera Simulation Center, and interactive online activities that go beyond traditional lecture-based instruction. MSN candidates are coordinated into preceptorships by the nursing faculty.

2. Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner South Dakota State University

The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program of South Dakota State University equips nurses with the capability to provide effective psychiatric and physical health care to patients with complex requirements. Advanced nursing practice in psychiatric mental health encompasses both outpatient and inpatient care, infants through the elderly, and conditions ranging from mild depression and anxiety to severely disabling ones, such as substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.

Among the nurse practitioner programs in South Dakota, the program prepares graduates to provide much-needed, high-quality mental health care to all populations and conditions in a variety of rural and urban contexts. Graduates are eligible for certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) upon completion of the program. Coursework for the program is delivered online and incorporates fieldwork. Certain courses may necessitate on-campus attendance. A minimum of 1,000 hours of clinical practice preceptorship are completed by students.

3. Family Nurse Practitioner South Dakota State University

The online family nurse practitioner program of South Dakota State University prepares graduates to provide direct patient care at an advanced practice level in primary care settings utilizing evidence-based approaches. They are expected to apply research findings and guidelines to enhance and improve their clinical practice. Upon completion of their studies, graduates are equipped with the necessary skills to engage in collaborative efforts with rural communities, including mitigating health inequities.

The delivery of program courses is conducted using an online platform. Certain courses may necessitate in-person attendance on campus. The course requirements encompass the necessary criteria and expectations that students must fulfill in order to successfully complete the course.  Upon completion of this FNP program, graduates have the opportunity to obtain certification as a family nurse practitioner through either the ANCC or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioner Certification Board (AANPCB).

4. Mount Marty University Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner

The MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program at Mount Marty University equips nurses to take their practice to the next level and provide primary care to individuals from various backgrounds. Coursework is offered both on-campus and online. The majority of students enroll in the program while working in their respective disciplines.

After completing the six-semester accredited program, you will be eligible to take the ANCC and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) certification exams to obtain a family nurse practitioner license.

5. Augustana University Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP)

The specialization of Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP) at Augustana University is one of the nurse practitioner programs in South Dakota that equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide comprehensive care. Students of this program are trained to provide care for individuals aged 13 and above who present with intricate acute medical illnesses within the confines of an inpatient healthcare environment. It delivers a comprehensive range of healthcare services, encompassing disease prevention as well as acute care management.

Graduate students specializing in this field engage in the development of comprehensive treatment regimens with several dimensions. The clinical hours will encompass the provision of direct patient care within acute care units, encompassing critical care as well as a diverse range of specialist areas. Individuals who have completed this specialized program are qualified to sit for the AG-ACNP certification examination.

What are the legal and regulatory challenges for nurse practitioners in South Dakota?

Nurse practitioners in South Dakota must navigate a dynamic legal framework that shapes practice autonomy, prescriptive authority, and collaborative practice agreements. Regulatory updates can influence scope of practice, liability considerations, and reimbursement policies, requiring continuous monitoring of state legislation and guidelines issued by the South Dakota Board of Nursing. Staying informed about these evolving requirements is essential for maintaining compliance and ensuring optimal patient care. Comprehensive resources, such as information on how to become a registered nurse in South Dakota, can serve as a crucial foundation for understanding and adapting to these legal challenges.

Is the Accelerated Psychiatric Mental Health NP Certificate Right for You?

For nurse practitioners aiming to rapidly specialize in mental health, accelerated certificate programs offer an efficient route to enhance clinical expertise. Programs like the shortest PMHNP program provide a focused curriculum that emphasizes advanced patient assessment, evidence-based treatment protocols, and immediate clinical application. This pathway is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing clinical skills while meeting stringent certification requirements, enabling graduates to address the growing demand for mental health services in diverse care settings. Evaluating these accelerated options against comprehensive program outcomes is essential to ensure they align with both professional goals and the evolving needs of healthcare delivery in South Dakota.

What Professional Development Opportunities Can Enhance Nurse Practitioner Careers in South Dakota?

Nurse practitioners in South Dakota can accelerate career growth by actively engaging in professional development initiatives. Participation in specialized workshops, advanced certification courses, and leadership training programs refines clinical competencies and strengthens evidence-based practice. Networking through professional organizations and state-level nursing associations further facilitates mentorship opportunities and access to emerging trends. Additionally, integrating complementary skills—such as medical assistant training in South Dakota—can enhance interdisciplinary collaboration and broaden clinical expertise.

Can Licensed Practical Nurses Transition to Nurse Practitioner Roles in South Dakota?

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) aiming to advance their careers in South Dakota may explore pathways that lead to nurse practitioner roles. Transition programs designed for LPNs evaluate clinical experience and prior licensure credentials as part of the admission criteria for advanced practice preparation. Applicants are encouraged to review academic prerequisites and complete necessary clinical hour requirements before pursuing graduate-level studies. For additional guidance on initiating this career transition, visit our guide on how to get a LPN license in South Dakota. Regulatory standards and pathway structures differ across institutions; therefore, a targeted evaluation of program outcomes is crucial to ensure a successful transition.

How Can Nurse Practitioners Stay Updated on Licensing and Regulatory Requirements in South Dakota?

To ensure compliant practice and optimal patient care, nurse practitioners in South Dakota should routinely monitor state board announcements and legislative updates. They can subscribe to official newsletters from regulatory bodies and participate in professional webinars focused on policy changes. Engaging with specialized nursing organizations also provides valuable insights into emerging practice standards and streamlined procedures. For detailed guidance on licensing steps and updates, refer to how to get a nursing license in South Dakota.

What are the Emerging Trends Impacting Nurse Practitioner Practice in South Dakota?

Nurse practitioners in South Dakota are adapting to an evolving healthcare landscape as technology and patient needs shift. Recent trends include the rapid expansion of telehealth services, integration of data analytics for personalized care, and an emphasis on interprofessional collaboration. These innovations are redefining clinical practice, driving NPs to acquire complementary skills that enhance both patient management and administrative efficiency. For instance, credentialing in areas such as medical billing and coding certification in in South Dakota has become increasingly valuable. Adapting to these trends not only reinforces clinical expertise but also supports strategic decision-making in implementing emerging healthcare models.

How do nurse practitioners address healthcare disparities in South Dakota?

Healthcare disparities remain a significant challenge in South Dakota, particularly in rural and underserved communities. Nurse practitioners (NPs) play a critical role in addressing these inequities by leveraging their skills and training to provide accessible, patient-centered care. Here’s how NPs contribute to reducing disparities:

• Primary Care in Rural and Underserved Areas
  • Nurse practitioners often practice in remote and underserved communities, where they may be the primary healthcare providers.
  • They deliver essential services such as wellness exams, chronic disease management, and preventive care in areas with limited access to physicians.
• Culturally Competent Care
  • NPs in South Dakota receive training to provide care that respects the cultural and social needs of diverse populations, including Native American communities.
  • By incorporating cultural sensitivity into their practice, they build trust and improve healthcare outcomes.
• Telehealth Services
  • Many nurse practitioners use telehealth to extend care to patients in geographically isolated areas.
  • This technology enables real-time consultations, medication management, and follow-ups without requiring patients to travel long distances.
• Health Education and Advocacy
  • NPs educate patients on disease prevention, nutrition, and lifestyle modifications, empowering them to take control of their health.
  • They also advocate for healthcare policy changes to improve access to affordable and high-quality care.
• Collaboration with Local Organizations
  • Nurse practitioners partner with local health organizations and community programs to address specific public health issues, such as diabetes, mental health, and substance abuse.
  • These collaborations help bridge gaps in resources and services.

Job Prospects and Career Growth for Nurse Practitioners in South Dakota

Nurse practitioners in South Dakota enjoy a positive job outlook, with demand driven by a growing emphasis on primary care and an aging population. The state offers numerous opportunities in rural and underserved areas, where NPs often serve as the backbone of healthcare delivery.

Specializing in high-demand fields such as family practice, mental health, or gerontology can further boost career prospects. NPs who focus on underserved communities may also qualify for student loan forgiveness programs and other financial incentives, making these roles particularly attractive.

For aspiring NPs seeking affordable educational pathways, exploring the cheapest FNP programs online can help reduce tuition costs while providing the flexibility to balance work and study.

With strong demand, financial incentives, and diverse career paths, nurse practitioners in South Dakota can look forward to rewarding and stable careers that make a significant impact on community health.

What are the different NP specializations in South Dakota?

NP programs in South Dakota offer various specializations, each catering to different healthcare needs and career goals. Considering the easiest nurse practitioner program might benefit those seeking manageable options. Each specialization offers unique opportunities and challenges, allowing NPs to find a path that aligns with their interests and career goals. Here’s a brief overview:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
  • Scope of Practice: Provides comprehensive care for all ages in various settings, including clinics and hospitals.
  • Advantages: High demand and versatile work opportunities.
  • Challenges: Managing diverse patient needs requires a broad knowledge base.
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)
  • Scope of Practice: Focuses on healthcare for children from birth to young adulthood.
  • Advantages: Specialization in pediatrics offers deep expertise in child healthcare.
  • Challenges: Emotional demands of treating ill children and communicating with parents.
• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)
  • Scope of Practice: Specializes in care for adults and the elderly.
  • Advantages: Growing demand due to the aging population.
  • Challenges: Managing multiple chronic conditions in older adults.
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
  • Scope of Practice: Provides mental health services, including diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders.
  • Advantages: High demand due to rising awareness of mental health issues.
  • Challenges: Emotional demands of treating complex mental health cases.
• Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)
  • Scope of Practice: Focuses on reproductive and gynecological health for women.
  • Advantages: Plays a critical role in women’s health.
  • Challenges: Managing sensitive health issues can be challenging.

What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Nurse Practitioner Program in South Dakota?

When selecting the best nurse practitioner program in South Dakota, several factors should be considered to ensure the chosen program aligns with your career goals, learning style, and personal circumstances. These factors include accreditation, program specialization, curriculum, clinical placement opportunities, faculty expertise, and location. Additionally, considering the overall cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, and living expenses, is crucial. You can find more information about the best nursing schools in South Dakota to make an informed decision. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can choose a nurse practitioner program that provides a high-quality education, prepares you for certification, and sets you up for success in your future career.

What is the role of an MSN degree in advancing nurse practitioner careers?

Earning an MSN degree equips nurse practitioners with advanced clinical skills and leadership capabilities essential for addressing complex healthcare challenges. The curriculum focuses on integrating evidence-based practice with innovative patient care strategies, thereby enhancing clinical decision-making and interprofessional collaboration. Prospective students can explore what is an MSN to gain insights into curriculum structure, accreditation standards, and career advancement opportunities inherent to MSN programs.

What are the advantages of incorporating nurse midwifery into advanced practice in South Dakota?

Nurse midwifery offers a focused approach to maternal and infant care that complements traditional nurse practitioner roles. Advanced practice nurses considering this pathway benefit from specialized training in prenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum care, which can address critical gaps in maternal health services—especially in rural and underserved areas. Reviewing nurse midwife qualifications in South Dakota is essential for understanding the specific certification and licensing requirements. This career choice enhances your clinical repertoire with skills in family-centered care and emergency obstetric management while expanding interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities. Evaluating program accreditation, clinical placement support, and curriculum specifics is crucial when integrating nurse midwifery into your advanced practice trajectory, ensuring that you are well-prepared to meet the evolving healthcare needs of South Dakota communities.

Nurse Practitioner Programs in South Dakota: Your Options for Advanced Practice Nursing

Nurse practitioner programs in South Dakota present an array of choices that cater to the diverse needs and ambitions of aspiring healthcare professionals. Whether one opts for the flexibility of online learning or the immersive experience of on-campus studies, the NP programs as presented by the Research.com team in this article offer a comprehensive blend of academic rigor, practical training, and specialized focus.

As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, these top online and on-campus nurse practitioner programs in South Dakota stand as beacons of quality and innovation, fostering the growth of skilled and compassionate NPs who will contribute significantly to the well-being of individuals and communities alike. High paying travel nursing jobs are another option that you can consider should you wish to explore further.

References:

1. American Association of Nurse Practitioners (2022). NP Fact Sheet.
2. South Dakota Center for Nursing Workforce (2023). South Dakota Nursing Workforce: 2023 Supply and Employment Characteristics.
3. South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation (2023). Statewide South Dakota Employment Projections by Occupation.
4. US Bureau of Labor Statistics (2022). Nurse Practitioners.